The sessions listed below represent the sessions scheduled to take place during the conference, giving you a clear idea of what to expect. A more detailed schedule, including specific breakout blocks, room locations, and times, will be posted soon. These sessions offer a glimpse into the diverse topics and expert presenters you can look forward to. We’re committed to providing you with the tools and insights necessary to make meaningful connections and learn effective strategies. Keep an eye out for the full session details as we prepare to share everything you need to plan your experience.
Presenter: Dr. Darian Jones, Senior Consultant, Successful Practices Network | National Dropout Prevention Center
Description: In a time when schools are striving to rebuild connections and restore trust, this powerful workshop centers on the transformative potential of restorative justice and deep family engagement. Discover how these approaches can create collaborative, supportive school environments that empower not only students but entire communities. Attendees will explore innovative strategies for integrating restorative justice practices that heal and unite, while simultaneously engaging families as true partners in the educational journey. You’ll gain insights into how these practices can break down barriers, reduce conflicts, and foster a culture of mutual respect and understanding within schools. You’ll leave this session equipped with practical tools and actionable strategies to build stronger, more inclusive school communities. By learning how to effectively engage families and implement restorative practices, you’ll be prepared to create schools that are not just places of learning, but centers of community collaboration and empowerment. Get ready to transform your approach to school culture and witness the powerful impact of community-driven education.
Presenter: Dr. Cretia Kirkwood, Administrator, District U46, Illinois
Description: Attendees will leave the session with a deeper understanding of the critical role of early childhood education in shaping academic trajectories, particularly for African American students and other students of color. They will be inspired and equipped to take proactive steps toward fostering educational equity and improving outcomes for early learners in their respective educational contexts. The session explores disparities in kindergarten readiness and academic achievement, the challenges faced by African American children, and practical strategies to promote equity in early childhood education. Participants will engage in discussions on policy changes, the effectiveness of educational strategies, and the role of family engagement in improving educational outcomes.
Presenters: Dr. Pamela Ford, Stevie Brooks, Jamil Snowden, Dionne Culp, Jennifer Forester, Maria Espinoza, Sasha Kind, Larry Jones, Ahmed Hussein, and Arnold Davis, KCPS Student Retention & Success Specialists Team, Kansas City Public Schools, Missouri
Description: The Truancy Recovery Initiative Program (T.R.I.P.) is a targeted initiative to support the truancy recovery and improvement efforts of the Student Retention Specialist team. This program implements positive reinforcements and interventions to enhance student attendance rates and prevent chronic absenteeism. By addressing underlying factors contributing to truancy, engaging families, and recognizing student progress, the initiative fosters a trauma-informed, supportive school culture that aims to re-engage students and families in their educational journeys.
Presenter: Ned Blake, Director of Secondary Education, Florence School District 3, South Carolina
Description: Attendees will learn about innovative strategies and initiatives that led to successful learning outcomes for overaged and under-credited student populations in grades 7-12. This initiative has empowered students and fostered a sense of hope and belief that graduation is an attainable goal. The session will highlight the impact of a $300,000 grant that focused on improving graduation rates and providing ongoing support for students, especially in grades 7-8.
Presenters: John Gailer, Senior Consultant, National Dropout Prevention Center; Dr. Shanan Chappell Moots, Director of Research Analytics and Research Associate Professor in the Center for Educational Partnerships, Old Dominion University
Description: Since its release in 2018, the Trauma-Skilled Schools Model™ has trained educators from nearly all 50 states, offering a comprehensive, tier-one, schoolwide approach to addressing the effects of stress and trauma in educational settings. This session will provide an overview of the model, highlighting its key components and implementation strategies for schools and districts. Participants will learn how this model can transform educational environments and support the well-being of both students and staff.
Presenter: Dr. Felicia Turner, Senior Consultant, Successful Practices Network | National Dropout Prevention Center
Description: In this interactive session, participants will discover how to ignite a passion for writing in English Language Learners (ELLs) of all ages by leveraging personal experiences and cultural backgrounds. This session emphasizes how personal connection to writing can re-engage students, help build confidence, and create a sense of belonging in the classroom. Educators will leave with practical strategies to help students feel more motivated and engaged in their learning journey.
Presenter: Mercedes Thurston, Dean of Students, Spectrum Academy, Florida
Description: This session unveils the Literacy Leaders program, which integrates key resilience factors to enhance educational experiences. Attendees will learn how the program fosters meaningful relationships between students, educators, and community partners, creating a profound sense of belonging. Through personalized learning and decision-making opportunities, the initiative drives student success, leading to both academic and personal growth.
Presenters: Taylor Stowe, Director of Professional Learning; Dr. Jennifer Glover, Executive Director of Teaching and Learning; Lena Dowdy, Executive Director of Technology; Maggie Nations, Executive Director of Federal Programs and Student Services, Mountain Education, Georgia
Description: Mountain Education redesigned its learning model to meet the needs of at-risk students. This session will cover the development of the Transformative, Relevant, Aligned, Learning, System (TRAILS) curriculum and provide attendees with the tools to create their own custom LMS. Participants will explore challenges in the process and how they can implement similar strategies in their schools.
Presenters: Peter Kosko Ocampo, Director of Special Education; Jennifer Currence, Compliance Specialist, Rock Hill School District, South Carolina
Description: This session outlines the journey of Rock Hill School District’s Exceptional Student Education Department in addressing dropout rates and increasing graduation rates for students with disabilities. Attendees will learn how to develop graduation teams and implement strategies specifically designed to improve outcomes for students with disabilities. This session provides practical steps for creating a sustainable model that decreases dropout rates and increases graduation success.
Presenter: Dr. Felicia Turner, Senior Consultant, Successful Practices Network | National Dropout Prevention Center
Description: This continuation of Part I focuses on structured writing instruction for English Language Learners (ELLs). Participants will explore scaffolded writing strategies, peer feedback sessions, and creative expression activities that enhance students’ engagement and academic performance. Educators will leave with practical tools to support ELL students in developing language skills and staying motivated to complete their education.
Presenters: Ms. Artrella Cohn, Senior Director of Community Engagement and Student Investment, Communities In Schools Of Kalamazoo; Dr. Kandace Lavender, Executive Director, Read and Write Kalamazoo
Description: This session showcases a multigenerational literacy initiative involving key community organizations working together to improve literacy outcomes. Attendees will learn about co-creating needs-based initiatives with schools, collaborating with community partners, and engaging parents and caregivers in literacy support. Participants will leave with insights on how collective impact can enhance literacy outcomes for students and families.
Presenters: Cassandra Hart, Secondary Curriculum Director; Zinnia Wince, Assistant Superintendent; Aiyetoro Roy, Principal-High School; Charlene Flaggs, Social Worker; John Taylor, Principal-Middle School; Pamela Watson, Principal-Elementary, Greenwood Leflore Consolidated School District, Mississippi
Description: The GLCSD Attendance Team will present strategies implemented at various school levels (elementary, middle, and high school) to improve student attendance. Participants will learn about the data-driven development of Attendance Improvement Plans and how these plans have been reassessed for future implementation. The session will include videos and pictures showcasing best practices for creating a welcoming and engaging school environment to improve attendance and overall school climate.
Presenters: Dr. Joan Bludorn, Principal; Johnny Fernandez, Assistant Principal, Boulder Valley School District, Colorado
Description: Learn how to design a school model that prepares students for careers and college by allowing students to work, volunteer, or participate in internships while attending high school. This session will highlight a dual-focus schedule where students engage in academics for part of the day and participate in work-based learning for the rest. Participants will explore strategies to improve student attendance, discipline, and engagement, while fostering a safe and enjoyable school environment.
Presenter: Dr. Daniel Froemel, Senior Technical Assistance Advisor, NDTAC: The National Technical Assistance Center for the Education of Neglected or Delinquent Children
Description: This session will cover how Title I, Part D federal funds can be used to support educational services for at-risk youth, including those in correctional facilities. Participants will learn how to determine eligibility for these funds and how to use them to support dropout prevention programs within Local Educational Agencies (LEAs). Examples of successful at-risk programs across the country will be shared to showcase how these funds have been used to improve student outcomes.
Presenters: Nancy Nielsen, Certification Specialist, National Dropout Prevention Center; Aveene Coleman, Discipline and Attendance Program Manager, South Carolina Department of Education
Description: This session will share insights from two years of statewide Diploma Planning Institutes, focusing on how data is used to identify personalized educational interventions. Participants will explore strategies to balance data analysis with a holistic view of each student’s journey. The session will include interactive discussions on how to design and apply interventions that address the diverse needs of students and improve graduation rates.
Presenter: John Gailer, Senior Consultant, National Dropout Prevention Center
Description: This session provides school leaders with six actionable steps to address chronic stress and trauma in their schools. Participants will learn strategies to enhance emotional regulation, promote well-being, and create a resilient school culture. The session aims to equip educators with tools to create a supportive environment where both students and staff can thrive, even in the face of stress and trauma.
Presenter: Dr. Darian Jones, Senior Consultant, Successful Practices Network | National Dropout Prevention Center
Description: This session addresses post-pandemic challenges, including plummeting attendance rates and teacher shortages, and explores innovative strategies to reengage students and create educational spaces they want to return to. Participants will learn data-driven and community-based approaches to rebuild student engagement, tackle attendance issues, and create supportive school environments. By the end of the session, educators will have actionable strategies to foster sustained student engagement.
Presenters: Dr. Robert Peters, Senior Vice President, Successful Practices Network | National Dropout Prevention Center; Dr. Wachera Ragland-Brown, Chief Academic Officer, Bayonne Public Schools, New Jersey
Description: This session will cover the development of a future-focused school climate at Bayonne Alternative School, emphasizing resilience-building strategies that reduce dropout rates and absenteeism. The session will also showcase the effective facilitation of the High School Pathways Club Grant and its impact on creating a climate of success for all students.
Presenter: Dr. Tammy Pawloski, Professor of Education/Center Director, Francis Marion University
Description: This session highlights the power of Collective Teacher Efficacy (CTE) in driving significant student growth. Participants will learn the basics of CTE and take away a model and resources for ongoing professional study and teacher support. This session is designed for school and district leaders who want to maximize student growth through teacher collaboration and efficacy.
Presenters: Dr. Delarious Stewart, Assistant Professor/Director, School Counseling, University of the District of Columbia; Dr. James Maiden, Associate Professor/Assistant Dean, Uniformed Services University
Description: This session focuses on the role of integrated mental wellness and counseling programs in preventing student dropout. Participants will explore strategies to meet the needs of at-risk students through comprehensive mental health and counseling services. The session will provide insights into program planning, implementation challenges, and outcomes that contribute to student success and retention.
Presenter: Dr. Kimberly McLeod, President-Elect, NABSE, National Alliance of Black School Educators
Description: Unlock the untapped potential of black and brown students in this transformative session. Participants will learn how to elevate marginalized students from overlooked to outstanding by nurturing their unique brilliance. The session will focus on creating inclusive educational environments where every student’s talents are celebrated and developed.
Presenter: Dr. Tremaine Canteen, Principal, Cumberland Academy 6-12, North Carolina
Description: This session focuses on building a high-quality virtual school designed to support at-risk students, with a specific emphasis on increasing graduation rates. Participants will learn strategies for reducing dropout rates and using innovative engagement techniques to keep students motivated in a virtual learning environment. The session covers comprehensive support systems addressing academic, emotional, and social needs, along with tools to boost student self-esteem and resilience. Attendees will leave with actionable strategies for implementing a virtual school framework that supports student success both academically and personally.
Presenters: Dr. Joe Cash, Assistant Superintendent, Mountain Education, Georgia; Dr. Victoria Stroud, Director of Special Education, Towns County Schools, Georgia
Description: Dr. Stroud and Dr. Cash present the new alternative program guide, “Beyond Traditional Boundaries: A Practice Guide to Unconventional K-12 Approaches.” This session will address common challenges faced by nontraditional schools and programs in meeting the needs of alternative students. Participants will gain insights into guiding principles and best practices for creating successful nontraditional educational settings that engage at-risk students.
Presenters: Dr. Kristin Willis Adams, Support and Services Administrator; Dr. Jeanne Walker, Principal; Amanda Burks, Assistant Principal; Sherri Gilliam, Assistant Principal, Cobb County School District, Georgia
Description: This session will explore how schools and districts can address the needs of their least motivated and often overlooked learners. The presenters will share a successful non-traditional education model that provides academic, social/emotional, and physical support for at-risk students. Participants will also learn about individualized plans for post-secondary options that provide stability and support for students. The session will highlight strategies for breaking barriers and helping students achieve graduation.
Presenter: Andrinee Martinez, Recovery Program Coordinator, Harris County Department of Education / Fortis Academy, Texas
Description: This session will explore the innovative recovery high school model, which integrates academic support with intensive therapeutic interventions to support students dealing with substance abuse and mental health challenges. Participants will learn about the dynamics of an intensive outpatient recovery/treatment team and how it can improve academic and personal outcomes for students. The session covers the recovery high school framework, team composition, academic-therapeutic integration, and the impact on student retention and success.
Presenter: Kylee Fuhr, District Homeless Liaison, St. Lucie Public Schools, Florida
Description: This session highlights the strategies used by St. Lucie Public Schools to support McKinney Vento students (students experiencing homelessness) throughout high school and into college. Participants will learn how the district’s McKinney Vento program partners with high schools and alternative school sites to increase both graduation rates and the number of students continuing their education in college. The session will provide practical ideas for connecting with and supporting McKinney Vento students.
Presenter: Dr. Doran Gresham, Assistant Professor, The George Washington University – Graduate School of Education and Human Development
Description: This dynamic session will focus on addressing absenteeism in special education settings and promoting engagement among students with disabilities. Participants will explore evidence-based strategies to promote attendance and engagement and will learn how to implement proactive measures tailored to their school context. This interactive discussion will provide practical tips, resources, and collaborative opportunities for educators and school leaders to make a meaningful impact on students with disabilities.
Presenter: John Gailer, Senior Consultant, National Dropout Prevention Center
Description: Chronic stress and trauma are increasingly common in the lives of both students and staff, impacting their well-being and performance. This session explores what helps individuals manage chronic stress and move beyond the emotional responses to trauma. Participants will gain insights and practical strategies to foster resilience in both students and staff, equipping them with skills that extend far beyond their academic careers.
Presenter: Howard Townsend, Principal, Williamsburg James City County Public Schools/Jamestown High School, Virginia
Description: This session explores how schools can create an environment where students feel celebrated rather than tolerated, leading to improved attendance and engagement. Attendees will learn about the team approach used at Jamestown High School to master scheduling, student supports, and attendance, which has successfully built a positive school culture focused on student achievement, community service, and engagement. Participants will leave with practical strategies to foster a supportive and engaging school environment.
Presenter: Dr. Ken Wallace, Consultant, Successful Practices Network | National Dropout Prevention Center
Description: This session will examine how economic changes, rising higher education costs, and evolving career landscapes have impacted students’ career outlooks. Dr. Wallace will share strategies for implementing career advisement programs that prioritize student success and community revitalization. Participants will learn about the importance of design thinking in creating school experiences that include comprehensive career advisement and how these programs can help students navigate post-graduation opportunities.
Presenters: Dr. Nicholas Griffin, Transition Facilitator, Troup County School System, Georgia; Dr. Myriam Forster, Associate Professor, California State University Northridge
Description: This session covers the creation of a Transition Facilitator position in a rural Georgia county to assist youth transitioning to and from alternative education settings. The presenters will share strategies for building strong relationships with youth, increasing self-confidence, and enhancing engagement. Participants will learn about the impact of this position on students, parents, and the community, as well as the obstacles and changes faced during its first year of implementation.
Presenter: Anthony Chiles, Principal, Burke County School District, Georgia
Description: This session presents a systematic approach to building positive relationships with at-risk students in schools, organizations, and communities. Participants will learn eight communication strategies, integrating both traditional and technological tools, to reconnect with students in the digital age. The session will focus on preventing dropouts by strengthening personal connections with students, helping participants improve their relationship-building skills and reduce dropout rates.
Presenters: Jennifer Stimpson, School Counselor, Washington Elementary School; LaCresha Henderson, School Social Worker; Annery Sosa, Lead ESL Teacher, Cleveland County Schools, North Carolina
Description: This session will showcase the “Mirrors & Windows Book Club,” an innovative professional development approach that uses diverse children’s books to expand educators’ social awareness and cultural competence. Attendees will engage in discussions and reflections about race, ethnicity, racism, and immigration and learn how this approach promotes social-emotional well-being for students. Participants will experience the book club format firsthand and leave with tools to implement a similar initiative in their settings.
Presenter: John Gailer, Senior Consultant, National Dropout Prevention Center
Description: This session will guide educators in developing a personalized wellness plan to promote a balanced work-life dynamic and enhance well-being. Participants will engage in practical strategies and interactive activities designed to support their holistic self-care journey, ensuring sustained personal and professional growth. Attendees will leave with valuable tools to maintain wellness and prevent burnout.
Presenters: Terri Cummings, Vice President of Talent and Workforce; Tina Fox, Long Workforce Programs Manager; Alesia Hilton, Director of Career Readiness, Greater Winston-Salem, Inc., North Carolina
Description: This session highlights the Senior Academy, a career-readiness partnership between Greater Winston-Salem, Inc., and Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools. Participants will learn how career readiness programs that connect experiential learning, mentorship, and work-ready preparation can serve as a powerful dropout prevention strategy. The presenters will share insights into how this program supports students’ transition into adulthood, secondary education, and the workforce.
Presenter: Scott Depew, Director of Secondary Education, Hermiston School District, Oregon
Description: This session showcases Hermiston School District’s comprehensive Career and Technical Education (CTE) program, which prioritizes practical skills and real-world experiences for students. Participants will learn how CTE instruction can enhance student engagement, retention, and success. The session will also cover the integration of future-focused skills into all content areas, contributing to higher graduation rates and reduced dropout rates.